Having abandoned my favorite kolache joint between Houston and Bastrop, Hruska's in Ellinger on Hwy 71, because of excessive pride (read: soaring costs), I was greatly and pleasantly surprised to “discover” this well-known gem. I had passed the place numerous times while in or passing through LaGrange (no, I didn’t go there for “that”), but I always found a reason not to stop. Well, never again!

We stopped at Weikel's on the way to Warrenton, and although it was closer to lunch than breakfast, the kolaches were still deliciously warm. What was most impressive is that you don't need to bite into the filling to find fulfillment, as the "crust" by itself is so sweet and tasty.

The down side of the visit is that my girlfriend wouldn’t let me buy more (fighting the ol’ waistline, y’know). Their pies looked almost too good to eat – almost.

LaGrange is not really a place that’s “a little out of the way” from other major highways in the area. But, if you are on your way from Houston to Austin via Columbus, I highly recommend you give this place a try. You will thank me for it. Your waistline may not!

Scorecard

"Prune is one of the favorite Old World fillings. It is only minimally sweet, but maximally delicious."
Michael Stern

"This savory kolache, known as a pig-in-a-blanket, is sweet dough wrapped around a chewy hunk of good Texas sausage."
Michael Stern

"Six of the morning's repertoire, still a bit warm from the oven"
Michael Stern

"Sometimes there are other flavors than these, and often the most popular flavors are gone by mid morning. You can secure what you like by calling ahead or ordering your kolaches via Weikel's web site."
Michael Stern

"Behind Weikel's counter is a television that shows a video about kolaches being made."
Michael Stern

"It's hard not to like a restaurant with a motto."
Michael Stern

"Although it is located in a gas station convenience store, Weikel's makes what may be the best kolaches in Texas ... and that's no small accomplishment in this Czech-ancestored part of the state."
Michael Stern